Close to the Starnberger See - the largest expanse of water in the lakeland region - the Landgasthof Osterseen in Iffeldorf takes its name from the pretty wilderness of lakes, waterways and reed islands of the Ostersee, just south of the Starnberger. A modern chalet built in traditional beamed and panelled style, it is run with charm by the Link family. The tables on its large terrace, where you can breakfast, lunch, dine, and indulge in Georg Link's diet-defeating Konditorei (pâtisserie), give views across a gentle landscape of lakes, woods and pastures. Lakeland fish and fowl are prominent, in their season, on his menus, which range as far north as England (roast beef) and Norway (smoked salmon) and south to Italy (tomato and basil soup) and include a good sprinkling of Bavarian dishes. The wine list travels from Germany to the New World. Unlike the much-visited Starnberger See, the Osterseen is a quiet, unspoilt area, most suited to ramblers, nature lovers and bird-watchers. The bedrooms are large and restful, decorated in quiet neutrals with plain wood furniture. Eight have a balcony, but the quietest are rooms 11, 12, 201 or 202: they face away from the street, and their balconies overlook the lake.